Retail POS

UK Retail: 2024 Christmas Footfall

Christmas. The busiest time of year for many industries, especially retail. But will this year's festive footfall be naughty or nice? We reviewed data published by MRI Software to find out.

It's hard to consider this year's retail trends without first looking back to 2019, pre-pandemic. And the good news is that 2023 saw a return to 'normal' for Christmas retail trends with this year following suit.

As always, Black Friday kicks off the start of the silly season spending. Now with Black Friday and Cyber Monday behind us, how is the rest of the month faring?

Data from MRI Software predicts a rise in footfall for all shopping locations, including 1% increase in retail parks, 2% in shopping centres and 5% on the high street.

Jenni Matthews, MRI Software's Marketing and Insights Director, suggests high streets historically perform better during the festive season due to Christmas attractions (such as markets and lights) drawing crowds to town centres.

Matthews offered advice to retailers looking to attract footfall in to store rather than online, commenting that promotions, special shopping evenings or workshops could help drive traffic.

She also remarked that maximising convenience for customers was key, offering click and collect options and store opening times that make it easy for people to shop around their working hours. Ensuring that the atmosphere in store is welcoming, not too hot or cold.

Using data from your point of sale system to identify your business' own shopping trends and using that to manage your staffing and store operations.

Though Black Friday is considered the 'biggie' when it comes to the Christmas shopping calendar; it's worth noting that Christmas Day falls on a Wednesday this year. With some predicting that Saturday 21st December will be a 'super' Saturday with people rushing to finish their shopping.

And let's not forget the Boxing Day sales madness! According to MRI Software's data, Boxing Day shopping in recent years has only been a tad 'mad,' as families presumably prefering to continue their festivities at home. Whilst 2023 saw a peak in footfall on Thursday 28th December as people ventured out of their Christmas lull.

So, though the Christmas countdown is on, there's still plenty of December shopping days left to make 2024 a very bright and prosperous year in retail.

If you need assistance with retail reporting from your EPOS Systems' point of sale system, then one of our EPOS Experts will be happy to help. Contact our support team today.

Find out if your POS system can work without Wi-Fi

Yes, any decent point of sale (POS) machine should allow you to continue to utilise the vast majority of features without Wi-Fi. Although there may be a small number of functions that you might need to wait to use until you have a connection.

EPOS Systems' pioneering POS systems allow you to continue smoothly with your day-to-day operation even without Wi-Fi. And when you're internet is back up and running, you can send all your sales data to your cloud back office, ready for reporting.

But what if you're running a market stall or a pop-up and don't have access to Wi-Fi?

No Wi-Fi, no problem! Our brand new portable and powerful POS solution, TouchPoint lite operates over 4G connectivity and requires minimal set-up. Making it perfect for festivals, pop-up food stalls, small businesses, beer gardens, plus many more...

Offering all the functionality of our complete POS system, from a lightweight, mobile device. Choose just one or multiple integrated devices depending on the size of your operation; and allow your whole team to take orders and payments all from the palm of their hand.

TouchPoint lite also integrates with Stripe, who are one of the world’s leading payment processing platforms.

If you're looking for a portable POS solution then give our EPOS Experts a call today.

Intuitive EPOS for The Grampian Transport Museum

This case study was originally published by our point of sale partner, ICRTouch, on 6th September 2024.

Located in the historic village of Alford, the Grampian Transport Museum boasts an impressive range of transport exhibits, from travelling chariots of the 1800’s to some of the fastest cars ever made. The venue showcases hundreds of transport artefacts and operates a newly refurbished tea room, reception and shop, alongside which they offer a range of visitor services from tours and talks, to hiring meeting rooms for private functions and more.

In order to streamline day to day operations, The Grampian Transport Museum reached out to an Authorised ICRTouch Gold Partner, EPOS Systems, for a range of intuitive EPOS solutions to meet their needs.

The brief - Streamlined communication and enhanced operational efficiency

The museum team were looking for a system that enabled them to create a seamless process between front of house and kitchen teams, streamlining communications and speeding up service. They needed a solution that’s easy-to-use, efficient and can be installed quickly, with minimal disruption during business hours.

Due to the range of services they offer and various revenue streams across the tea rooms and retails shops, intelligent reporting was also a requirement, in order to gain a complete bird’s eye view of the museum’s entire operations.

In order to effortlessly upgrade their existing systems, the Museum reached out to our Authorised Gold Partner, EPOS Systems, who listened carefully to their needs and suggested a range of solutions.

The solution - Robust and reliable systems that streamline operations

The EPOS Systems team decided to implement the following solutions to meet the customer’s needs:

The experienced EPOS Systems team were able to accommodate the museum’s tight timescale for replacing their old POS systems by installing the new ICRTouch ecosystem remotely.

The result - Efficient service and informed business decisions

The systems provide the museum with an easy to use and efficient solution that streamlines communication between front of house and kitchen teams, allowing them to carry out day-to-day operations more seamlessly.

The customer especially loved the system’s stock management features. Having input all stock information and menu recipes, they’re using these features to get a better handle on the museum’s stock control and gain an understanding of where cost cuts can be made.

The museum now benefits from a solution that covers every aspect of the business, allowing them to streamline operations, boost revenue and make informed decisions at the same time.

“We implemented ICRTouch's TouchPoint with support from DigiTickets to take control of our kitchen and food functions in the museum, and give us full visibility of waste, sales and profitability in a way we’ve never had before. The EPOS Systems team were very helpful and delivered the project on time, to our needs and requirements. The team find the new ways of working simpler and it’s helping them to save time to better serve our visitors.”

Case Study: The Beatles Story

This case study was originally published by our point of sale partner, ICRTouch, on 30th July 2024.

The Beatles Story benefit from streamlined operations

The Beatles Story is an award-winning museum located in Liverpool. Based in the band’s birthplace, the venue offers a unique immersive experience, sharing stories about the band’s journey and music. The business opened in 1990, and by its 25th anniversary, it had welcomed more than four million visitors and boosted the Liverpool economy by approximately £300m.

In order to efficiently tackle the high footfall the venue experiences, The Beatles Story reached out to an Authorised Gold Partner, EPOS Systems for a range of industry leading, reliable EPoS solutions.

The brief - The importance of reliable EPoS in tackling high footfall

The Beatles Story on The Royal Albert Dock opened its doors to the public in May 1990 and has been an expanding business ever since, welcoming an incredible 315,000 visitors in just 2019 alone. The business is considered an integral part of “Liverpool’s future visitor economy growth”.

As well as offering a range of fun activities, The Beatles Story also operates two busy cafés and retail stores which host thousands of international visitors each year. Managing these areas without the right EPoS system during high footfall periods became a real challenge, which is why The Beatles Story team were seeking a solution that would speed up service and streamline operations during peak hours.

The customer reached out to an Authorised Gold Partner, EPOS Systems, who listened carefully to their needs and suggested a range of intuitive solutions to fulfil expectations.

The solution - Seamless integration to manage operations

In order to meet the needs of the customer, the following solutions were implemented:

The clarity and detail of communication between EPOS Systems, DigiTickets and The Beatles Story was a pivotal factor in the success of the installation, allowing for a quick and efficient implementation of the solutions.

The result - Enhanced operational efficiency thanks to reliable solutions

The combination of ICRTouch solutions alongside DigiTickets integration allows The Beatles Story to seamlessly manage ticket sales, capacity management, retail, food and drink stock and sales through one combined system, resulting in streamlined service and improved customer experience. The systems effortlessly process all transactions throughout all areas of the business, including the two cafés and both retail stores, feeding sales reports into TouchOffice Web in real-time.

The customer now benefits from a user friendly, all-in-one system and intelligent back-office reporting, allowing them to make informed business decisions moving forward.

"The launch of this new EPOS solution came at an exciting time for The Beatles Story, alongside the introduction of a brand-new ticketing system from DigiTickets and a new website from Ultimate agency, striving towards a streamlined operation that enhances the visitor experience and supports our venue's continued growth"

Point of Sale FAQs

What is EPOS?

EPOS stands for electronic point of sale. Invented in 1992, it was designed to simplify the sales process, evolving over time to assist with the management of all areas of business.

EPOS goes beyond a cash register; it is an intelligent web-based system that businesses can rely on for reporting, staff, stock, customer loyalty and promotions management, along with many other features. It can integrate with other systems, such as accounting software or hotel PMS, or even connect to websites or ordering apps to allow for more commerce options.

What is the difference between a cash register and an electronic point of sale system (EPOS)?

A cash register is limited in its functionality allowing for the management of sales only. An EPOS system can assist in driving a business’ efficiency with an intuitive back-office system that saves time and maximises profits. EPOS offers a far greater selection of functions such as, inventory and stock management, staff management, customer loyalty schemes and marketing incentives, plus much more…

What are the key things I should look for in an EPOS system?

- Ease of Use
Whether you’re introducing a new point of sale solution or introducing a new member of staff, you need a system that is easy-to-use and slips straight into your operation. When designed with the end-user in mind, EPOS will be easy to learn and operate.

- Customer Support
Though most EPOS systems are pretty fool proof you may experience a technical issue from time to time, and when you do you’ll need an EPOS expert on the other end of the phone to help you! When picking an EPOS system, make sure you don’t forget the value of a 7-day-a-week reliable service.

- Integration
Use Deliveroo for your takeaway deliveries or Sage for your accounts? It’s worth considering your current programs and choosing an EPOS System that will integrate with them. Allowing you to manage your whole operation more efficiently.

- Versatility and Scalability
Whether you’re an independent retailer or setting up a multi-site empire, you’ll want an EPOS System that can fit with your business’ individual needs. And when it’s time for your business to grow then you’ll need an EPOS system that will be able to grow with you! A good EPOS system will allow for integration across multiple sites, meaning you can manage your entire business from anywhere.

- Security
Protecting your sales data and personal data is important so you’ll want an EPOS system that is secure. Look out for systems that assist with deterring and investigating internal fraud for extra protection.

What do EPOS Systems offer as an EPOS provider?

EPOS Systems have been innovating for 40 years, helping an ever-changing industry adapt, improve, and excel, by providing easy-to-use, feature-perfect products.
With EPOS Systems you will receive reliable and knowledgeable support 7 days a week and a full suite of point-of-sale solutions tailored to your business’ needs.

Do EPOS Systems offer support?

EPOS Systems’ software is designed to be easy to use, but training is still provided with every installation so you’re ready to get started straight away, worry-free.
And if you ever need further assistance, EPOS experts are on call 7 days a week.

Can EPOS Systems offer a software only POS solution?

EPOS Systems pride themselves in offering personalised point of sales solutions and can be as flexible as possible to your business’ requirements. Software only solutions are available depending on the compatibility of the hardware. Our sales team would be delighted to discuss options with you.

What is a complete EPOS System?

A complete EPOS system includes a point-of-sale screen, customer display screen, a cash drawer, receipt printer and fully installed and programmed cloud back-office software.

What point of sale hardware do EPOS Systems supply?

EPOS Systems offer a full suite of point-of-sale hardware including handheld devices, mobile and self-service kiosks.

Is EPOS Systems’ software cloud based?

Absolutely! Meaning you can manage your entire business in real time from anywhere in the world.

What payment providers do EPOS Systems work with?

EPOS Systems’ software integrates with Dojo, Paymentsense and Elavon. A non-integrated option would be available should you wish to use a different provider.

Can EPOS Systems’ software integrate with other systems?

From payment gateway providers and staff resource management to security, accounting, e-commerce and hotel management; EPOS Systems’ software integrates with many third-party applications allowing you to streamline your business.

I’d like an EPOS demonstration. How can I set this up?

Arrange a remote or in person demonstration via EPOS Systems’ sales team, they’ll be delighted to help!

Case Study: SUEZ UK

SUEZ UK Implements Bespoke EPOS Ecosystem

SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK was established in 1988 as part of the global SUEZ Group to manage waste and water for local authority and business customers. EPOS Systems, has completed an install at four of the Greater Manchester sites.

Employing more than 5,000 people, with more than 600 people employed in Greater Manchester alone, SUEZ manages the waste sites on behalf of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), handling 1.1 million tonnes of waste arising from nearly 2.3million residents.

The Brief - EPOS To Support Business Growth

SUEZ recently launched its most comprehensive and ambitious reuse strategy at the Renew Hub in Greater Manchester. This is an industrial scale model of reuse where household products which otherwise would have gone to waste are upcycled and sold on to consumers via 3 local reuse shops and online retailer eBay. Facilities at the Hub lengthen the lifecycle of products, helping to reduce waste, with all proceeds distributed to charities and community groups across Greater Manchester.

EPOS Systems was tasked with providing a multi-till setup for SUEZ covering all four sites (three reuse shops and the Renew Hub) that could cover barcode assignment, label printing, weight reporting, efficiency staff discounting and above all, accurate reporting.

The Solution - A Bespoke Solution

Each site has a terminal installed with TouchPoint, along with receipt and barcode printers and a barcode scanner. This setup includes a TouchOffice Web account, which allows the SUEZ team remote access to manage their operation centrally.

Reusable household products are delivered to the Renew Hub, categorised as reused goods (sold as is) or upcycled goods (repaired then sold) and given a price depending on the quality. Each product is then assigned a barcode using a label printing script that has been modified to create price-embedded barcodes.

Every product is an open-price product within the system and assigned a price using TouchPoint which prints onto the barcoded label. When the barcode is scanned the product is sold at the price that was assigned to the product at the Hub upon inspection.

Due to the nature of the industry, it is crucial that SUEZ has accurate reporting on the weight of each product going through the system. To achieve this, EPOS Systems has used TouchPoint’s in-built functionality to give each item its average weight value. This was taken from a uniform file containing average weights that SUEZ provided.

A number of bespoke reports have also been created within TouchOffice Web that enable the required information to be generated in one place. These reports detail how many of each product have been sold, at what price, and most importantly, the total weight of each product. SUEZ also utilises the customer database feature within TouchOffice Web to offer a staff discount.

The Result - An Efficient System That Meets Business Needs

EPOS Systems have worked with many clients outside of the retail and hospitality sectors. However, with a unique set of requirements, SUEZ provided an opportunity to really challenge the capabilities of TouchPoint and TouchOffice Web. Through the dedication of the EPOS Systems team and the support of ICRTouch, SUEZ was provided with a customised solution that allows the management of the business and growth.

“The EPoS system created for us is easy to use and has enabled us to make serious progress towards our goals. The Renew Hub is an industry first in terms of the scale of operations and the system allows us to not only track sales, but also tonnages which is vitally important in our industry.”
Colin Preston, Renew Hub Manager At SUEZ Recycling And Recovery UK

This case study was originally published on https://www.icrtouch.com/